The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton opted for a dazzling all-red ensemble to take part in her grandmother-in-law the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pageant on the River Thames.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge prepare to board the Spirit of Chartwell (Picture: PA)

The Duchess, just one year on from her own wedding which brought a similar outpouring of national pride in Britain, sported an eye-catching outfit that appeared to match the colourscheme of Royal Barge on which she was travelling.

She also stayed true to designer Alexander McQueen, who put his name to her wedding dress last year, by choosing one of his collection for the day.

Teaming her stunning dress with a matching hat, complete with feather accent, a pair of tan high heels and a clutch bag, Kate looked every inch the national symbol she has become.

Kate certainly caught the attention with her outfit, alongside her husband Prince William who was dressed in full military colours for the occasion.

The Queen boards the tugboat at Chelsea Harbour to take her to the Royal Barge at Albert Bridge (Picture: Getty)

Her Majesty the Queen arrived on the Spirit of Chartwell barge, moored by Albert Bridge in Battersea, via tugboat dressed in ivory with a bejeweled hat alongside her husband, Prince Phillip and other members of the royal household including Prince Charles and Camilla.

On her first journey down the Thames the Queen looked in high spirits, smiling and waving to the crowds who packed the banks of the river.

Thousands and thousands of people were present, despite a damp start to the day and the threat of further rain showers hanging heavy in the air.

While they waited for the Queen to arrive, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were invited to inspect the myriad of bouquets and flower arrangements onboard the Spirit of Chartwell – including a stunning white and purple display to signify the crest she uses while on trips to the Commonwealth.

William’s younger brother Harry was also present in military uniform as the pageant got underway shortly after 2.30pm with a flotilla of 1,000 vessels passing by Chelsea pier towards central London on the Thames.

The Royal Barge launched from the pier at Albert Bridge to lead the procession, behind the Gloriana rowing vessel – which, with 18 rowers, is the largest of its kind still in operation in the UK.

The arrival of the Queen to the barge was also greeted by a drive-past by the Princess Elizabeth steam engine across Battersea rail bridge.